Philippians 3:13 Brothers and sisters, I don’t consider that I have taken hold of it yet. But here is the one thing I do. I forget what is behind me. I push hard toward what is ahead of me.
Isaiah 43:18 “Do not remember the former things, nor consider the things of old.
So, what does consider mean?
verb (used with object)
- to think carefully about: Do I consider myself to be a failure?
- to reflect on: Do I consider my past mistakes to determine my future successes?
- to regard as or deem to be: Do I consider myself to be unlovable?
- to think, believe, or suppose: Do I consider that others think I am unlovable?
- to bear in mind; make allowance for: Is my present situation because of my past mistakes?
- to pay attention to; regard: I will consider (believe) that my personal relationship with Jesus will enable me to live victoriously.
Don't be convinced by people or even yourself, that you are paying for your mistakes - whatever they may be. When you ask Jesus to come into your life and change you, He will do just that! His love for you is without limits and is not based on anything you did or didn’t do.
Here’s an exercise: write down 3 things that you feel are keeping you pulled down.
Go ahead, I'm waiting...
Now, write down 3 things that God has brought you out of.
Keep this list with you so that you will be reminded to pray for the struggles and praise for the victories.
Prayer: Father, may we always be thankful for the blessings that you have given us. I pray that you will help each of us to lay aside the things that have been holding us back, like unforgiveness, anger, hatred, bitterness toward someone, hurts, disappointments... We acknowledge you as Lord over every part of us. May your presence become so real and so strong to us, that we can't focus on the past but only anticipate what you have for us in the future.
We give everything we have to you.
In the Mighty name of Jesus!
Amen
